KRA Confiscates Uncustomed Ethanol Worth Sh15 Million

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) recently worked with a multi-agency team to intercept two trucks carrying a total of 288 drums of unpurchased ethanol worth approximately 15 million Kenyan shillings (about $140,000).

The tax implications for the seized shipment were estimated to be 35 million Kenyan shillings (about $320,000). The KRA stated that the registration numbers of the trucks had been covered up with foreign number plates.

It is not clear where the ethanol was being transported from or where it was intended to be delivered. The KRA did not provide any additional information about the individuals or organizations involved in the attempted illegal shipment.

The trucks are being held at the Loitoktok border office after being stopped at Kimana, Loitoktok in Kajiado County.

“KRA is determined to ensure that there is a fair playing ground for a legitimate business to thrive. The public is encouraged to undertake legitimate business to avoid prosecution,” the statement read.

The Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) is believed to lose over 53 billion Kenyan shillings (about $490 million) to tax evasion every quarter.

According to the KRA Commissioner for Tax Investigations and Enforcement, the majority of this money is lost in cases that are already being litigated in court. However, it is not clear what specific measures the KRA is taking to combat tax evasion in Kenya.